Kenny was set to replace McCarthy, 61, after Euro 2020 but the postponement of the play-offs and the tournament itself until 2021 because of Covid-19 led the FAI to bring their plan forward.

McCarthy guided the Republic of Ireland to third place behind Switzerland and Denmark in Euro qualifying Group D

McCarthy was appointed for a second spell in charge in November 2018 and an FAI statement on Saturday said both he and Kenny had agreed the former Dundalk boss should take over.

"Mick has had a tremendous career as captain of Ireland and as manager of Ireland on two occasions," Kenny said.

"It's unfortunate for him with the cancellation of the matches but he leaves a legacy and is revered in Ireland. There have also been contributions over the last few years from Robbie Keane, Terry Connor and all of the staff."

Kenny has brought former Republic internationals Damien Duff, Keith Andrews and Alan Kelly on to his coaching staff, with Jim Crawford succeeding him as Under-21 manager.

Kenny's first match in charge will be the Republic's European Championships play-off semi-final against Slovakia.

Originally scheduled for 26 March, it was this week postponed "until further notice" because of the coronavirus pandemic, having earlier been pushed back to June.